Philanthropy is central to Ellen Shiery’s personal and professional lives. As a Wealth Management Advisor at Murray, McGehrin & Shiery, Merrill Lynch, she helps individuals and institutions transform their wealth into lasting significance by integrating their personal values and philanthropic goals into their estate plans. She also advises nonprofit organizations, helping them fulfill their missions by navigating complex investments and managing risk.

Ellen said her partnership with CFAAC gives her a sense of comfort, knowing that she can rely on a team of professionals whenever she needs guidance or information about organizations that address specific community needs. “CFAAC is the hub for non-profits and the charitably inclined in Anne Arundel County and is a trusted partner for donors, non-profits, board members, and even elected officials,” she said, adding that CFAAC’s Poverty Amidst Plenty Community Assessment Report is a great resource.

Ellen also plays an active role in the Anne Arundel County community through her leadership positions and volunteer work. She is a member of the Anne Arundel Estate Planning Council, a Lifetime Member and on the Steering Committee of Anne Arundel Women Giving Together, and serves on the boards of the Anne Arundel Community College Foundation and the United Way of Central Maryland Anne Arundel County RUN. She is also a member of the 21^st Century Club, Junior League of Annapolis, and Leadership Anne Arundel. She believes that her extensive community work has given her more than she could have imagined in return.

“I’ve received so much more than I’ve given—the relationships I’ve built, the memories I’ve made, the skills I’ve had the opportunity to hone,” she said. “The time, effort, and energy I’ve put into these efforts have all come back to me tenfold. The more I give back, the more I’ve found I have to give.”

Ellen, a passionate advocate for children in foster care, received a Corporate Commitment Award from Anne Arundel County CASA for increasing her colleagues philanthropic giving by 900%. She was recognized as one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women by the Daily Record and named Emerging Philanthropist of the Year at CFAAC’s 2020 Celebration of Philanthropy Awards Luncheon.

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